If you weren’t a designer, what would you be? A nose! I love perfume and have a pretty acute sense of smell. I’d love to be trained to create fragrance because I find it so simultaneously powerful and elusive.

What was your favorite part about working with Duralee on your collection? I loved the collaborative process in the studio, expanding my knowledge of weaves and the processes by learning from the pros. Our sessions were always my favorite part of the week!

Design trends tend to be cyclical, what trend would you like to see make a comeback? Which do you wish would never return? I’d love a return to the luxury of simplicity and an embracing of silks, regardless of durability. Everyone wants things that last forever, but I think that’s the wrong attitude. You give up a lot of depth and richness when you compromise.

One I wish would never return - synthetics… Some designers of my generation seem to have a melancholy for the 70’s but it just reminds me of itchy double knit pants!

If you were to collaborate with any fashion designer, who would it be? The late Alexander McQueen or the master Mr. Lagerfeld.

Where is the most inspiring place you’ve ever been? I’m making my way around the world. I’m sure I’d need at least two lifetimes! But I’m extremely passionate about Mexico right now… The mix of cultures, Mayan & Spanish/Native & European, along with the classical architecture and primitivism, have been exciting to uncover.

If you could live on any movie set, which one would you pick? “I Am Love”. The 1930’s Milan interior of Villa Necchi Campiglio is stunningly beautiful.

What is the best advice you could give a new designer just starting out? As a young designer, don’t be afraid to try anything and everything - make mistakes, fail, invest in your own talent. Do whatever it takes to make your art. Never stop learning and follow your intuition. Don’t waste your creative talents by not putting them to use. If you can’t find the job you want, volunteer/intern, even for just one day a week- get your foot in the door and something will blossom.

If you had to choose any other designer to design your home, who would it be and why? Alberto Pinto. I’ve always loved the sculptural way he approaches an interior. His work is like mine in that it’s layered with thoughtful detail.

Do you have any hidden talents? I can read minds... Just kidding!

What’s on your wish-list right now? Palm trees and a roof on my Hacienda.